India’s Energy Interests in Central Asia: The Strategic Role of Ladakh

The emergence of Central Asia as a separate geographical and political entity in India’s strategic neighbourhood in 1991 changed the region’s geopolitical landscape. This newly independent region collectively started to look forward to a broader and more dynamic engagement with the outside world. Central Asia’s geostrategic importance of its energy resources have attracted the world powers to extend their spheres of influence. The notion of Greater Central Asia, encompassing Ladakh as a crucial and multifaceted tri-junction, assumes considerable significance that frequently remains unacknowledged. Nevertheless, the region is increasingly being recognised for its potential to enable land connectivity between India and Central Asia. In this sense, it reminds us to revisit the history of India’s forgotten gateway to Central Asia, famously known as the ‘cold desert’ or ‘land of mountain passes’, which once teemed with the hustle and bustle of trading activities filled with caravans and merchandise, far from Siberia. In the past, Ladakh has always been on the strategic map of all neighbouring countries and external forces, including Tibet, China, Xinjiang, Mongolia, Baltistan, Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Tsarist Russia and the British Empire. Currently, India’s strong desire to connect with Central Asia necessitates rediscovering the forgotten old Silk Road across the Karakoram. These routes could enhance ties between India and Central Asia while preserving traditional legacies. The study attempts to discuss how Strategic location of Ladakh can play a very important role in connecting these two regions.